Affordable Education and Personal Growth at Barstow Community College

Published June 11, 2024 | By kdooley08

Barstow Community College, (BCC)located in the High Desert region of Southern California, offers a diverse range of programs and resources designed to meet the educational and career needs of its students. This article provides an overview of BCC, including its history, location, student and faculty demographics, scholastic requirements, acceptance rate, and tips for applicants.

School History

Established in 1959, Barstow Community College has a long-standing commitment to providing quality education to the residents of Barstow and its surrounding communities. Over the decades, BCC has evolved to meet the changing educational needs of its students while maintaining a focus on academic excellence and community engagement. Key milestones include:

1959: Establishment of Barstow Community College.
1970’s: Expansion of academic programs and facilities.
2000’s: Introduction of online courses and distance learning options.

Location

BCC is situated in Barstow, California, a city known for its strategic location along major transportation routes, including Interstate 15 and Interstate 40.

Climate: Barstow enjoys a desert climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters.
Nearby Attractions: The college is near notable attractions such as the Mojave National Preserve, Calico Ghost Town, and Route 66.
Transportation: The campus is easily accessible by car, with ample parking facilities available for students.

Student and Faculty Population

Barstow Community College serves a diverse student body and is supported by a dedicated faculty.

Student Demographics: BCC enrolls over 3,000 students annually, including traditional and non-traditional learners.
Faculty Expertise: The faculty at BCC includes experienced educators and industry professionals committed to student success and academic excellence.

Scholastic Requirements

To gain admission to Barstow Community College, prospective students must meet certain scholastic requirements:

General Admission Requirements

High School Diploma or Equivalent: Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED.
Application Process: Complete an online application form available on the BCC website.
Placement Tests: New students may need to take placement tests in English and math to determine appropriate course levels.

Program-Specific Requirements

Nursing Program: Requires completion of prerequisite courses and a competitive application process.
Career and Technical Education Programs: May have additional requirements such as background checks or physical examinations.

Acceptance Rate

Barstow Community College maintains an open admissions policy, making education accessible to a wide range of students.

Inclusivity: The open admissions policy aligns with BCC’s mission to serve the educational needs of the community.
Program Selectivity: While overall admissions are inclusive, some specialized programs, like nursing, may have more selective criteria.

Tips for Applicants

Prospective students can improve their chances of success at Barstow Community College by following these tips:

Preparing a Strong Application

Complete All Sections: Ensure that all parts of the application form are filled out accurately and completely.
Submit Early: Apply early to secure a spot, especially for high-demand programs.
Prepare for Placement Tests: Brush up on basic English and math skills to perform well on placement tests.

Utilizing Support Services

Advising: Take advantage of academic advising services to plan your course schedule and career path.
Tutoring: Use tutoring resources to strengthen your understanding of challenging subjects.
Financial Aid: Apply for financial aid and scholarships to help cover tuition costs.

Programs Offered

Barstow Community College offers a variety of academic and vocational programs. Below is a detailed table of the programs available:

Program Name	Time to Complete	Degree or Certification	Additional Info
Associate in Arts (AA)	2 years	Degree	General education and transfer preparation.
Associate in Science (AS)	2 years	Degree	Focus on science and technical fields.
Nursing	2 years	Degree/Certification	Comprehensive nursing education with clinical experience.
Business Administration	2 years	Degree	Emphasis on business principles and practices.
Computer Science	2 years	Degree	Training in programming, networking, and IT skills.
Welding Technology	1-2 years	Certification	Hands-on training in welding techniques and safety.
Automotive Technology	1-2 years	Certification	Skills in automotive repair and maintenance.
Early Childhood Education	2 years	Degree/Certification	Training for careers in childcare and early childhood education.
Criminal Justice	2 years	Degree	Preparation for careers in law enforcement and public safety.

Student Life

Barstow Community College provides a vibrant campus life with various activities and resources for students:

Student Clubs and Organizations: Numerous clubs and organizations cater to a wide range of interests.
Campus Events: Regular events such as workshops, cultural celebrations, and guest lectures enrich the student experience.
Support Services: Comprehensive support services include academic advising, career counseling, and mental health resources.

Other Points of Interest

Career Services

Job Placement: BCC offers career services, including job placement assistance and internship opportunities.
Career Counseling: Personalized career counseling helps students explore career options and prepare for the job market.

Financial Aid

Types of Aid: Financial aid options include federal and state grants, scholarships, and loans.
Application Process: Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and explore other funding opportunities available through BCC.

Conclusion

Barstow Community College is dedicated to providing accessible and high-quality education to its students. With a wide range of programs, supportive services, and a commitment to community engagement, BCC is an excellent choice for those seeking to advance their education and career prospects. Prospective students are encouraged to visit the Barstow Community College website and reach out to the admissions office for more information.